BY WILL PERKINS
Glasgow News 1
Community members may have extra incentive to donate blood this week.
The Air Methods base in Glasgow is partnering with the American Red Cross and T.J. Regional Health to host a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. this Wednesday, March 5, at the T.J. Health Pavilion. This event is part of a drive involving five other bases across Kentucky and into Indiana.
“We’ve turned it into a little competition to see who can collect the most units at each of their respective blood drives,” said Tyler Beauchamp, a flight paramedic for the Air Methods base in Glasgow, in a recent interview with WCLU Radio. “We’re the current reigning champs, so hopefully we can maintain that this year.”
Beauchamp added that there’s “always a critical need for blood.”
In the first three years of the “Battle of the Bases” competition, the six bases have collected more than 476 blood-unit donations, according to a press release from Air Methods.
Kendall Stewart, a flight nurse for Glasgow’s base, stated in the press release that “it’s exciting to see the blood drive program continue to grow and it’s humbling to know these donations are saving hundreds of lives.”
Those interested in donating blood can sign up ahead of time at redcrossblood.org, or via a link on the Air Methods Glasgow Facebook page, but walk-ins will also be accepted.
“Don’t think you can’t come if you don’t get an appointment,” Beauchamp said. “You can still just show up and they’ll try to fit you in.”
Glasgow’s base recently posted on social media that they carry blood products on every flight.
“This life-saving therapy could be the reason why a loved one survives,” the post states. “Give the gift of life next Wednesday with us at TJ Pavilion.”
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